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Beautiful People: Marianne Welch

Back in 2002 Marianne Welch and long-time friend Rachel McNaughton opened Glamorpuss Cosmetics. As devoted beauty product enthusiasts, Marianne and Rachel spend their days sourcing a range of unique and innovative brands and we were lucky enough to sit down with Marianne to talk all things beauty.

How would you describe your personal style, fashion and beauty wise?
My personal style is relaxed, and this is true of both my fashion and beauty style. I prefer the natural, undone make-up look that is the hallmark of our BECCA Cosmetics range.

What five products can’t you live without?
I can’t live without BECCA’s Mineral SPF 30 Face and Body Suncreen, Luminous Skin Colour and Beach Tint, Pai’s Camellia and Rose Cleanser and Mario Badescu’s Buffering Lotion.

What was the inspiration behind Glamorpuss Cosmetics?
When we opened our store ten years ago, the niche beauty market was really beginning to open up. Independent brands like Benefit, Urban Decay and philosophy began making their mark in an industry that was previously dominated by the corporate giants. This was matched by a the new dedicated beauty boutique retail environment, which was offering an alternative experience to the department stores and chemists. I was inspired by the international retailers like SpaceNK and the now defunct Pout who spearheaded this new approach.

What does your skincare routine consist of?Cleanse, Tone and Moisturise every morning and evening, plus a serum in morning, and an oil at night. Plus, my tinted moisturisers and foundation all have an SPF 30. Eye Cream every day (this is ideal for everyone over 20!), exfoliate twice weekly, nourishing face mask).

Best trick to brighten up a morning after face?Start with thoroughly moisturising skin, as it may be looking a bit dehydrated. Use a lighter foundation or, ideally, a tinted moisturiser, and mix it with a light-reflecting illuminating cream (I’d use BECCA’s Shimmering Skin Perfector) This will help to brighten up a dull complexion. Follow with light concealer under eyes, and even over eyelids to conceal shadows and darkness. Blend a cream blush, such as BECCA’s Turkish Rose on apples of cheeks, to add a healthy flush, and finish with one coat of mascara to open up eyes, and a subtle lip gloss. Keep drinking water, and hang on in there!

How do you stay healthy?I’ve just re-joined the gym after too long a hiatus, and am feeling better for it already. The usual things – i try to eat a healthy balanced diet, with lots of veges, and pulses as I’m a vegetarian. I try not to drink too much alcohol, tea or coffee, substituting instead sparkling water or peppermint tea. Of course, sometimes things don’t always go to plan….Definitely no smoking.

What are your thoughts on plastic surgery?
This is entirely up to the individual concerned – my only thoughts are that more subtle approach to any kind of cosmetic procedure (including filler or botox) is generally more flattering. However, that’s just my opinion and Joan Rivers would disagree with me.

Who is your beauty icon and why?
I love Gwen Stefani’s look. She has the most beautiful porcelain skin, and is instantly recognisable in her signature red lipstick.

What has been your biggest beauty disaster?
Two things spring immediately to mind – chemically straightening my hair several years ago. It looked great at the time (sleek and manageable) but then it started breaking and falling out in clumps. Also, an over zealous beauty therapist decided to wax off my brows, which looked horrendous. Fortunately, they grew back.

What is the best beauty advice you’ve ever been given?
Always wear sunscreen, every day, even in winter.

How do you treat yourself?
I love going for a reflexology or massage treatment, they’re so relaxing.